Photo of Angela Edwards, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Angela Edwards
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
I have experience working with those in the queer community, those who are neurodivergent, those with chronic illness, and those who are starting to unpack childhood trauma.
“There is no standard normal. Normal is subjective. There are seven billion versions of normal on this planet.” - Matt Haig. So very often, we find ourselves facing the word "should". Who I "should" be, where in life I "should" be, what I "should" be able to do. Whether you are just learning who you are for the first time, or are in a place of transition in your life, the process can be very difficult and can often leave us feeling isolated, alone, misunderstood, and in the need of support.
I have experience working with those in the queer community, those who are neurodivergent, those with chronic illness, and those who are starting to unpack childhood trauma.
“There is no standard normal. Normal is subjective. There are seven billion versions of normal on this planet.” - Matt Haig. So very often, we find ourselves facing the word "should". Who I "should" be, where in life I "should" be, what I "should" be able to do. Whether you are just learning who you are for the first time, or are in a place of transition in your life, the process can be very difficult and can often leave us feeling isolated, alone, misunderstood, and in the need of support.
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Photo of Remote Psychological Evaluations And Testing In 35 States, Psychologist in Puyallup, WA
Remote Psychological Evaluations And Testing In 35 States
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Moreland specializes in complex diagnoses such as mood disorders, trauma, and personality disorders, Dr.
Dr. Moreland is a Licensed Psychologist, who conducts comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments through HIPAA Compliant Telehealth Platforms. She specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a range of socio-emotional problems, as well as cognitive symptoms and disorders. She has worked with a wide range of neurodevelopmental disorders, including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and specific learning disorder. She has also had experience with neurological conditions, including traumatic brain injuries and dementia.
Moreland specializes in complex diagnoses such as mood disorders, trauma, and personality disorders, Dr.
Dr. Moreland is a Licensed Psychologist, who conducts comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments through HIPAA Compliant Telehealth Platforms. She specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a range of socio-emotional problems, as well as cognitive symptoms and disorders. She has worked with a wide range of neurodevelopmental disorders, including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and specific learning disorder. She has also had experience with neurological conditions, including traumatic brain injuries and dementia.
(253) 400-1650 View (253) 400-1650
Photo of Dr. Bre | Evolution Engineered, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Dr. Bre | Evolution Engineered, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
Wanna be your own #RelationshipGoals! I help folx evolve beyond the same old arguments, into an honest partnership that nourishes each of you individually + together! My approach is all about identifying the individual skills each of you need to co-create a loving partnership -- without trauma bonds or codependency. I work with all backgrounds + orientations + expressions that know how to Love in all different ways! We do the work that is right for YOUR partnership—not anyone else's. You'll also discover if it's time to release your relationship. AND if it is time... I'll help you do so in the most Loving way!
Wanna be your own #RelationshipGoals! I help folx evolve beyond the same old arguments, into an honest partnership that nourishes each of you individually + together! My approach is all about identifying the individual skills each of you need to co-create a loving partnership -- without trauma bonds or codependency. I work with all backgrounds + orientations + expressions that know how to Love in all different ways! We do the work that is right for YOUR partnership—not anyone else's. You'll also discover if it's time to release your relationship. AND if it is time... I'll help you do so in the most Loving way!
(360) 526-8654 View (360) 526-8654
Photo of Amanda Allie, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Amanda Allie
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in using attachment-focused EMDR and cognitive behavior therapy to treat PTSD, grief/loss, anxiety, recovery from abusive relationships, and developmental trauma.
Asking for help when you're stuck can be hard. If you're reading this, you're on your way to getting better. Whether you are experiencing severe anxiety, mild trauma symptoms, or just having difficulty making positive changes in your life, counseling can help. I provide telehealth therapy sessions (no in-person) for your convenience, to fit better into your busy life. Together we will find solutions, improve your overall health and self-esteem, and help you live the kind of life you are proud of. I provide consistent, non-judgmental support and I will keep your concerns confidential.
I specialize in using attachment-focused EMDR and cognitive behavior therapy to treat PTSD, grief/loss, anxiety, recovery from abusive relationships, and developmental trauma.
Asking for help when you're stuck can be hard. If you're reading this, you're on your way to getting better. Whether you are experiencing severe anxiety, mild trauma symptoms, or just having difficulty making positive changes in your life, counseling can help. I provide telehealth therapy sessions (no in-person) for your convenience, to fit better into your busy life. Together we will find solutions, improve your overall health and self-esteem, and help you live the kind of life you are proud of. I provide consistent, non-judgmental support and I will keep your concerns confidential.
(253) 201-1483 View (253) 201-1483
Photo of Bethany Sutton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Bethany Sutton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
Waitlist for new clients
I have clinical experience treating anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma.
Everyone is worthy of love and belonging. I am committed to creating a safe space for my clients no matter their background, story, or identity. I believe that each client is unique and deserves to be heard. Therapy is a collaborative process. My role is to meet you where you are and guide you toward healing. I will respect and honor your story and help you move through the pain to find new beginnings.
I have clinical experience treating anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma.
Everyone is worthy of love and belonging. I am committed to creating a safe space for my clients no matter their background, story, or identity. I believe that each client is unique and deserves to be heard. Therapy is a collaborative process. My role is to meet you where you are and guide you toward healing. I will respect and honor your story and help you move through the pain to find new beginnings.
(253) 499-8871 View (253) 499-8871
Photo of John Carlsen, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
John Carlsen
Counselor, MA, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
You're someone who is looking to find just the right fit in a counselor. Maybe you are experiencing grief, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes. Perhaps you have a general sense of dissatisfaction with life, or have specific things you want to work through. Or, maybe you're feeling trapped by anxiety, or past trauma, and you want to feel a sense of hope; to be seen, heard, and understood. There is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy, and the things you may want to work on are important and unique.
You're someone who is looking to find just the right fit in a counselor. Maybe you are experiencing grief, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes. Perhaps you have a general sense of dissatisfaction with life, or have specific things you want to work through. Or, maybe you're feeling trapped by anxiety, or past trauma, and you want to feel a sense of hope; to be seen, heard, and understood. There is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy, and the things you may want to work on are important and unique.
(253) 201-0431 View (253) 201-0431
Photo of Racheal Stuth Reichel LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Racheal Stuth Reichel LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, MSW
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372  (Online Only)
I primarily focus on healing the wounds of the past which have become the wounds of the present My specialty is Complex PTSD and it's accompanying overlayment of co-occuring diagnoses, neurodiverse/sensory experiences, and diverse populations & communities LGBTQI+/BIPOC.
Sometimes in life we find ourselves dealing with issues we never imagined would happen. We struggle in relationships or we struggle at work. Sometimes we don't know why we're feeling the way we are- and that's ok too. Throughout life we face a variety of struggles psychotherapy helps you know you're not alone. My goal is to help you find hope, your direction to authenticity and healing beyond the struggles you're holding.
I primarily focus on healing the wounds of the past which have become the wounds of the present My specialty is Complex PTSD and it's accompanying overlayment of co-occuring diagnoses, neurodiverse/sensory experiences, and diverse populations & communities LGBTQI+/BIPOC.
Sometimes in life we find ourselves dealing with issues we never imagined would happen. We struggle in relationships or we struggle at work. Sometimes we don't know why we're feeling the way we are- and that's ok too. Throughout life we face a variety of struggles psychotherapy helps you know you're not alone. My goal is to help you find hope, your direction to authenticity and healing beyond the struggles you're holding.
(253) 338-8788 View (253) 338-8788
Photo of Cornerstone Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Cornerstone Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP, MA, CMHS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
from traumatic experiences by addressing the impact of trauma.
We repeat what we don't repair." Christine Langley-Obaugh. At Cornerstone Counseling, we believe in the power of healing and growth. We understand that individuals often find themselves trapped in repetitive patterns that prevent them from living their best lives. Inspired by the quote above, we are dedicated to helping clients break free from these patterns by providing compassionate therapy and facilitating deep personal transformation. Our holistic approach combines evidence-based techniques with empathy, providing a safe space for clients to explore, heal, and grow. Let us support you on your journey to a more fulfilling life
from traumatic experiences by addressing the impact of trauma.
We repeat what we don't repair." Christine Langley-Obaugh. At Cornerstone Counseling, we believe in the power of healing and growth. We understand that individuals often find themselves trapped in repetitive patterns that prevent them from living their best lives. Inspired by the quote above, we are dedicated to helping clients break free from these patterns by providing compassionate therapy and facilitating deep personal transformation. Our holistic approach combines evidence-based techniques with empathy, providing a safe space for clients to explore, heal, and grow. Let us support you on your journey to a more fulfilling life
(253) 799-0582 View (253) 799-0582
Photo of Jessica Stearns, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Jessica Stearns
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) therapy but also use a variety of other treatment methods that I integrate to ensure you get the best possible care.
I am currently accepting new clients! When we accept ourselves we can more fully connect with others and enjoy being present in our daily lives. Would you like to treat yourself with loving kindness? To respond thoughtfully to others instead of reacting based on past experiences? I enjoy working with adult abuse survivors to develop self-compassion and explore issues related to childhood and relational trauma. If you would like to learn to nurture and care for yourself, to find acceptance and peace I can help!
I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) therapy but also use a variety of other treatment methods that I integrate to ensure you get the best possible care.
I am currently accepting new clients! When we accept ourselves we can more fully connect with others and enjoy being present in our daily lives. Would you like to treat yourself with loving kindness? To respond thoughtfully to others instead of reacting based on past experiences? I enjoy working with adult abuse survivors to develop self-compassion and explore issues related to childhood and relational trauma. If you would like to learn to nurture and care for yourself, to find acceptance and peace I can help!
(253) 487-0374 View (253) 487-0374
Photo of Christy Munro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Christy Munro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Grief, anxiety, trauma, and depression are a few of many maladaptive responses to life stresses I have worked with.
Our innate human desire and need for love and connection is undeniable. In my work with families, individuals and partners, I encourage my clients to uncover and share feelings that often lie underneath dysfunctional patterns and interactions. This systemic perspective also values reflection on the impact from our families of origin. I also aim to nurture a strong sense of identity and self worth, believing this is imperative in finding balance in our unpredictable, confusing world.
Grief, anxiety, trauma, and depression are a few of many maladaptive responses to life stresses I have worked with.
Our innate human desire and need for love and connection is undeniable. In my work with families, individuals and partners, I encourage my clients to uncover and share feelings that often lie underneath dysfunctional patterns and interactions. This systemic perspective also values reflection on the impact from our families of origin. I also aim to nurture a strong sense of identity and self worth, believing this is imperative in finding balance in our unpredictable, confusing world.
(253) 780-0725 View (253) 780-0725
Photo of Marie Rule, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Marie Rule
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW , MHP
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98375
I work with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenges with self-worth and unhelpful thinking, trauma, PTSD, relationships and feeling stuck. I help clients realize their innate wisdom, achieve their goals - whatever they may be, and find new ways of being in a world that is constantly full of challenges. I also work with parents who are struggling with their roles as parents, dealing with guilt and shame that oftentimes comes with parenting and help to find positive solutions with childrearing.
I work with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenges with self-worth and unhelpful thinking, trauma, PTSD, relationships and feeling stuck. I help clients realize their innate wisdom, achieve their goals - whatever they may be, and find new ways of being in a world that is constantly full of challenges. I also work with parents who are struggling with their roles as parents, dealing with guilt and shame that oftentimes comes with parenting and help to find positive solutions with childrearing.
(253) 243-3930 View (253) 243-3930
Photo of Piya Banerjee, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Piya Banerjee
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
I employ a systems-oriented, relational, and trauma-informed approach to my work and enjoy working with folks (especially Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People Of Color) looking to heal and thrive in the face of trauma and oppression.
"Pain is important: how we evade it, how we succumb to it, how we deal with it, how we transcend it" - Audre Lorde. I hope to build healing relationships with people who would like to create more connection, ease and freedom in their lives. I work relationally and through the body by building self awareness, and doing standing and seated embodiment practices.
I employ a systems-oriented, relational, and trauma-informed approach to my work and enjoy working with folks (especially Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People Of Color) looking to heal and thrive in the face of trauma and oppression.
"Pain is important: how we evade it, how we succumb to it, how we deal with it, how we transcend it" - Audre Lorde. I hope to build healing relationships with people who would like to create more connection, ease and freedom in their lives. I work relationally and through the body by building self awareness, and doing standing and seated embodiment practices.
(253) 299-4941 View (253) 299-4941
Photo of Karen Beth Acheson, Psychologist in Puyallup, WA
Karen Beth Acheson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings and welcome. I'm Dr. Karen Beth Acheson, Ph.D., and I have over 20 years of experience bringing warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor to help empower people to make healthy changes in their lives. My primary focus is adult psychotherapy. My style is down-to-earth; I draw from humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral & mindfulness-based therapies. My specialty areas include: Depression; Bipolar (manic) Depression; Anxiety; Trauma (including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder); and Emotional/Sexual/physical Abuse. Also, I am now blending my lifelong passion for animals, including a B.S. in Animal Science, with
Greetings and welcome. I'm Dr. Karen Beth Acheson, Ph.D., and I have over 20 years of experience bringing warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor to help empower people to make healthy changes in their lives. My primary focus is adult psychotherapy. My style is down-to-earth; I draw from humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral & mindfulness-based therapies. My specialty areas include: Depression; Bipolar (manic) Depression; Anxiety; Trauma (including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder); and Emotional/Sexual/physical Abuse. Also, I am now blending my lifelong passion for animals, including a B.S. in Animal Science, with
(253) 215-6726 View (253) 215-6726
Photo of Michelle Baker, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Michelle Baker
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, children, and those in the queer community. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy.
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, children, and those in the queer community. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy.
(253) 527-7789 View (253) 527-7789
Photo of Pathway to Change Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Pathway to Change Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
We have immediate openings for new clients! Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
We have immediate openings for new clients! Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
(253) 218-4176 View (253) 218-4176
Photo of Ignite A Path to Wellness in Puyallup, WA
Ignite A Path to Wellness
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
Counseling is most effective when taking a collaborative and holistic approach. The Ignite team strives to create a strong, therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, responsibility, empathy, and open-mindedness. We offer a safe and supportive space to explore aspects of the 'self' and life experiences that make up the 'self'. Our staff is trauma-trained and trauma informed. We value our ability to hear the unheard and to help clients find their voice of empowerment.
Counseling is most effective when taking a collaborative and holistic approach. The Ignite team strives to create a strong, therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, responsibility, empathy, and open-mindedness. We offer a safe and supportive space to explore aspects of the 'self' and life experiences that make up the 'self'. Our staff is trauma-trained and trauma informed. We value our ability to hear the unheard and to help clients find their voice of empowerment.
(253) 242-8587 View (253) 242-8587
Photo of Taren Williams, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Taren Williams
Counselor, MAED, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I have worked with a wide range of symptoms, however most of my experience lies in working with individuals who are managing anxiety, depression, and trauma related symptoms.
Hello! I thoroughly enjoy working with people and feel honored when a person trusts in me their life story/current difficulties. I believe there are many different reasons to seek therapy, and that each of us have walked such unique and sometimes challenging paths to get to where we are today. I enjoy getting to know the intricacies of these paths and what has led an individual to where they are today, and from there beginning the work, collaboratively, towards where one would ideally like to be.
I have worked with a wide range of symptoms, however most of my experience lies in working with individuals who are managing anxiety, depression, and trauma related symptoms.
Hello! I thoroughly enjoy working with people and feel honored when a person trusts in me their life story/current difficulties. I believe there are many different reasons to seek therapy, and that each of us have walked such unique and sometimes challenging paths to get to where we are today. I enjoy getting to know the intricacies of these paths and what has led an individual to where they are today, and from there beginning the work, collaboratively, towards where one would ideally like to be.
(253) 215-8564 View (253) 215-8564
Photo of Brian Ashburn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Brian Ashburn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I have completed my CBT+ Certification for anxiety, depression, and trauma in addition to being trained in Lifespan Integration therapy.
I am here to support and encourage clients facing hardships and life changes who desire to live as their best selves and feel unstuck. I work with clients who struggle with issues such as identity, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication. I work at a pace set by my client while providing tools and resources to aid along the way. I personally have seen the positive impact therapeutic relationships can have in the lives of youth and young adults. For this reason, I enjoy working with young adults, teens, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Please visit my website for more information about me and my work.
I have completed my CBT+ Certification for anxiety, depression, and trauma in addition to being trained in Lifespan Integration therapy.
I am here to support and encourage clients facing hardships and life changes who desire to live as their best selves and feel unstuck. I work with clients who struggle with issues such as identity, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication. I work at a pace set by my client while providing tools and resources to aid along the way. I personally have seen the positive impact therapeutic relationships can have in the lives of youth and young adults. For this reason, I enjoy working with young adults, teens, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Please visit my website for more information about me and my work.
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Photo of Daniel Foss, Licensed Professional Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Daniel Foss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Now Accepting New Patients. Dan is trained in EMDR. Trauma comes out in many different ways for the individuals I treat. Let's put together the goals that best suit your goals and life to best help you get better and feel better. Dan has been trained in EMDR and worked in the hospital setting with trauma, injurious behaviors, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Grief and loss, and OCD patients.
Now Accepting New Patients. Dan is trained in EMDR. Trauma comes out in many different ways for the individuals I treat. Let's put together the goals that best suit your goals and life to best help you get better and feel better. Dan has been trained in EMDR and worked in the hospital setting with trauma, injurious behaviors, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Grief and loss, and OCD patients.
(253) 252-5226 View (253) 252-5226
Photo of Kathryn Zawislak Therapy & Associates LLC, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Kathryn Zawislak Therapy & Associates LLC
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Our group specializes in depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Kathryn has devoted over 20 years working in a variety of settings to help children and families better understand themselves and strengthen their relationships. Some of her experiences include private practice therapy, school counseling (k-12), and being a behavior specialist. She runs a group practice and supervises clinicians working with all types of clients. Kathryn is not accepting new clients but together with her clinical director she supervises all clinicians in her group.
Our group specializes in depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Kathryn has devoted over 20 years working in a variety of settings to help children and families better understand themselves and strengthen their relationships. Some of her experiences include private practice therapy, school counseling (k-12), and being a behavior specialist. She runs a group practice and supervises clinicians working with all types of clients. Kathryn is not accepting new clients but together with her clinical director she supervises all clinicians in her group.
(360) 375-7178 View (360) 375-7178
Trauma and PTSD Therapists

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.